By Bob Katzen

Would allow cities and towns to increase fines for handicapped parking violations by $450. Current fines are between $100 and $300 so the bill would increase that range to between $550 and $750.

The additional funds must be placed in a special municipal account and used solely to support compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on public property and in public buildings. Local commissions on disabilities or special commissions are tasked with assessing municipal needs for ADA implementation.

“I filed this legislation to ensure stronger enforcement of handicapped parking laws and to provide dedicated funding for local ADA compliance efforts,” said sponsor Rep. Bruce Ayers (D-Quincy). “This bill will help protect the rights of residents with disabilities and improve accessibility throughout our communities.”